Fans around the world are showing their love for Matthew Gaudreau and his brother Johnny, who were killed Thursday night while riding their bikes in Old Mans Township, New Jersey, after being struck by a suspected drunk driver.
a GoFundMe page The fund, set up on behalf of the Gaudreau family, had raised $500,000 in donations from at least 7,100 donors as of late Monday morning.
“It is with our hearts broken that we must share the heartbreaking news that the Gaudreau family has experienced a tragic and immeasurable loss,” the GoFundMe page reads. “On August 29th, 2024, Matthew and his brother John passed away after a car accident.”
“During this incredibly difficult time, we are coming together to support Matthew's wife, Madeline, and their growing son, Tripp, and to help ease the financial burden they currently face. Your support will allow them time off work to grieve and heal as a family.”
“No amount of money can ease the pain of loss, but your support on any level will help ease some of the financial burden for the Gaudreau family as they navigate this journey.”
“All donations raised will go directly to Madeline for funeral expenses and baby Tripp.”
Tripp is due to be born in December to Matthew's widow, Madeline Gaudreau.
Check out the NY Post's coverage of the tragic death of NHL star Johnny Gaudreau at age 31.
Madeline posted a touching message to her late husband on Instagram on Saturday.
“I have no words. I just miss you. I don't know life without you. I've never experienced pain like this. I am so blessed that you chose me to be your wife and that you love me. You are the best thing for me,” Madeline wrote in the caption of a photo of them looking at each other. “I know you are watching in pain as much as I am looking up. I will keep on fighting for you and our son. I love you so much, Matthew.”
Johnny's widow, Meredith Gaudreau, also posted a heartbreaking message to her late husband on Instagram.
“Thank you for the best years of my life. Even though I lost you, I am the luckiest girl in the world to be yours. I love you so much. You were perfect and some days were just unbelievable,” Meredith wrote on Saturday. “I love everything about you. You are my forever and I can't wait to be with you again. I love you forever.”
